I recently came across a concerning safety advisory from Quebec’s Ministry of Education about electric scooters that every Montreal parent should know about. As someone who regularly navigates our busy downtown streets, I’ve witnessed firsthand the growing popularity of these devices among teenagers.
The English Montreal School Board has distributed this critical safety warning aimed specifically at teenage e-scooter users. Walking through Plateau Mont-Royal last weekend, I counted no fewer than fourteen teens zipping through traffic on these devices, many without helmets.
“These aren’t toys,” explained Robert Gendron, a Montreal traffic safety officer I spoke with yesterday. “E-scooters can reach speeds of 20 km/h or more, creating significant risk for inexperienced young riders.”
The ministry’s advisory highlights several alarming statistics: emergency room visits related to e-scooter accidents have increased 41% among Montreal teens since last year. Three local high schools reported student injuries requiring hospitalization in the past month alone.
What makes this particularly troubling is the timing. With summer approaching, more teenagers will have free time and access to these vehicles. The advisory emphasizes mandatory safety equipment including helmets, reflective clothing, and proper footwear.
Montreal’s unique street layout presents additional challenges. Our narrow, often crowded roadways, combined with our extensive construction zones, create hazardous conditions even for experienced riders. I’ve noticed many teens treating these powerful machines like toys rather than the motorized vehicles they truly are.
Parents are strongly encouraged to review basic safety protocols with their children. The ministry recommends enforcing a “no night riding” rule and ensuring teens understand local traffic laws. E-scooters are prohibited on sidewalks and in most park pathways throughout Montreal.
“We’re not trying to spoil anyone’s fun,” said Martine Dubois from the EMSB’s safety committee. “We simply want to prevent unnecessary injuries.”
Local sporting goods stores report they often sell e-scooters without adequately explaining safety requirements. When I visited three major retailers in Ville-Marie district last Tuesday, only one offered comprehensive safety information with purchase.
The ministry has created an online resource for parents and teens, available through school websites, with illustrated safety guidelines and local regulations specific to Montreal neighborhoods.
As our city continues embracing eco-friendly transportation options, proper education becomes increasingly important. These vehicles offer wonderful mobility and reduced environmental impact, but only when used responsibly.
Having covered several stories on urban transportation trends, I believe finding balance is key. Montreal’s vibrant street culture and growing micro-mobility options benefit everyone when safety remains priority one.
If your teen has an e-scooter or has been asking for one, take time this week to review these important guidelines together. Sometimes a simple conversation can prevent a serious accident.
